Paris police just made two more arrests in the high-stakes $102 million jewel heist at the Louvre Museum, pulling in suspects number eight and nine in a robbery that has stunned the art and history world.
The newest suspect, a 37-year-old man, has been charged with theft and conspiracy. Prosecutors say he’s no stranger to these types of crimes. Alongside him, a 38-year-old woman has been accused of helping plan the heist. Her lawyer, Adrien Sorrentino, says she’s devastated.
“She does not understand how she is implicated in any of the elements she is accused of,” Sorrentino told reporters.
So far, nearly ten suspects have been arrested since the October 19 museum raid. French media reports say at least four of those in custody could potentially offer key details to investigators. Three individuals have already been released without charges.
The heist, which lasted only eight minutes, saw thieves bypass security through a freight lift before smashing display cases inside the Apollon Gallery. They made off with historic treasures like Empress Eugénie’s pearl-and-diamond tiara and a diamond-and-emerald necklace once gifted by Napoleon.
One of the latest suspects was caught trying to leave the country from Charles de Gaulle airport en route to Algeria.
Investigators are pouring over DNA evidence, surveillance footage, phone records, and other items found during searches.
“Everything obviously begins with the DNA traces, the fingerprints… and brick by brick, the investigation is being built and tightening around those who may be involved,” said magistrate Laure Beccuau.
